Warm Greetings on the 78th Anniversary of the Establishment of Russia-India Diplomatic Relations!
— Prem Sagar Paudel----------------
Today, April 13, marks a historic day as we commemorate 78 years since the establishment of diplomatic relations between Russia and India. Shortly after India became an independent nation in 1947, Russia (then the Soviet Union) promptly established formal diplomatic ties with India.
The relationship between India and Russia has remained long-standing, trustworthy, and rooted in mutual respect. A Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership has been developed between the two countries, which continues to grow stronger and more dynamic with time.
This bilateral relationship is guided by deep mutual trust, respect for each other’s national interests, and shared perspectives on key international and regional issues. The cooperation between the two nations in foreign policy and security matters remains steadfast.
High-level political dialogue has significantly strengthened the Russia-India partnership. Every year, direct engagements between leaders take place through high-level meetings and summits. In 2024, Russian President Vladimir Putin and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi met twice—first in July during Modi’s official visit to Moscow, and again in October on the sidelines of the BRICS Summit held in Kazan.
Similarly, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov and Indian External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar held five bilateral meetings in 2024 alone, in the context of major international forums.
In 2024, Russia emerged as one of India’s top four trading partners. Bilateral trade increased by 12%, exceeding $60 billion. During the July 2024 summit, both countries set a target to reach $100 billion in trade volume by the year 2030.
In the field of nuclear energy, Russia is India’s sole partner involved in the construction of nuclear power facilities. The Kudankulam Nuclear Power Plant in southern India stands as a landmark project and a testament to the robust technical and energy collaboration between the two nations.
India and Russia have also demonstrated significant cooperation in diverse sectors such as defense technology, agricultural development, cultural exchange, humanitarian programs, advanced technology, and space research. A notable example is the BrahMos missile system, a successful joint venture between the two countries.
Moscow and New Delhi stand firmly for a multipolar world order—one that upholds sovereign equality, adherence to international law, and respect for the cultural and civilizational identity of all nations. Both countries advocate for strengthening the role of the Global South and believe in each nation's right to determine its own path of development.
The two nations continue to work closely within multilateral organizations such as BRICS and the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO). Russia has consistently supported India’s candidacy for permanent membership in the United Nations Security Council.
India-Russia relations continue to deepen with time, and it is our firm belief that this partnership will reach even greater heights in the future. On this proud anniversary, I extend my heartfelt congratulations and best wishes to our friends in both Russia and India!
